Market Watch: These Compact Pre-Owned Cars Deliver Serious Fun

It’s tough to argue against big numbers in the car world; because performance sells, for sure. Due to this, engineers are seemingly in a nonstop battle to wring out maximum horsepower. Then, apply this concept to family cars and voila - we’re in business.

However, does more power equate to more fun? That’s a debate bound to polarise opinions. We reckon that other factors have to be considered to make driving fun - weight, handling. And the toughest indicator in the automotive world - does the car have a soul?

While compact performance cars do not necessarily deliver instant fireworks, they form an excellent foundation for pure driving enjoyment. Less heft, shorter braking distances, more confidence through corners contribute to a livelier, more involving drive. Of course, these cars aren’t made for everyone.

But once you try them, you’ll understand why newer and faster doesn’t always equate to more... fun.

2016 Suzuki Swift Sport

Arriving at a sliver over 1,000kg, the Swift Sport has always been one of those that punches way above its weight. It’s a car that rewards the driver more than we expect it to.

Often tagged as the “warm” hatch of the late 2000s hot-hatch era, later Swift Sports stuck to the formula: featherlight chassis, short wheelbase and a flexible engine that puts driving engagement at the forefront. Pick the automatic for daily duties; it’ll still pack a decent punch in the fun department.

2016 Mazda MX-5

We must mention the MX-5, widely known as the antithesis of EVs twice its weight. Even in modern ND-generation spec, it’s only roughly 70kg heavier than the OG NA launched in the early 90s. And more remarkable is the fact that the ND is slighter shorter in length than the original! Mazda knows what MX-5 customers want.

And if you are a die-hard purist, go for the 1.5-litre soft top over the 2.0-litre retractable hardtop to experience the MX-5 in its purest form. Depending on spec, that’s 25 to 40kg of weight savings - pure bliss in Miata land!

2009 Lotus Elise SC

The current path of Lotus might not stir our fondest memories, but it shouldn’t overshadow the brilliant creations of its storied past. Cue the Elise SC - it prioritises precision in the bends over heavy-hitting power.

A 0-100 km/h sprint executed in under 5 seconds doesn’t sound like much in 2026, but the manner in which it delivers pace is what makes it brim with star quality. 218hp packed into a 900+kg chassis only calls for 175-section front tyres from the factory. That’s unheard of today!

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